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The ECP option is a check drafting and direct
debiting service for the EdgCapture system that provides customers
with automatic payment options in addition to credit cards. Check
drafting is generally used for one-time purchases. A paper draft
for the desired amount is created, which is processed manually or
electronically like a normal check. Customers then receive the cancelled
draft checks or reproductions with their monthly statements. Direct
debiting is most often used for recurring purchases, such as subscriptions,
for customers with accounts in ACH (Automated Clearing House) member
banks. After an initial customer signature authorizing the withdrawals,
the transaction amount is withdrawn directly from the customer's
checking account.
Like credit card transactions, ECP transactions
can enter the EdgCapture system from multiple sources. ECP transactions
can even be submitted along with credit card transactions in a single
batch file.
When EdgCapture receives a check draft or a direct
debit transaction, the information is verified and entered into
the database. At a predefined time, EdgCapture creates a batch file
containing all ECP transactions for the day and sends it to the
check processor. The processor returns a reply file containing the
status of each submitted transaction. If a transaction is later
returned because of insufficient funds or a bad account number,
the processor notifies the merchant by fax or phone.
Check drafting operates automatically only for
sale transactions. Credits against existing check drafts must be
settled by issuing a refund check to the customer. Direct debit
credit transactions may be processed automatically through ACH.
Edgil supports all major check processing networks,
including AllFirst, Bank of America, and Paymentech.
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